Ellwood Thompson's Local Market

Ellwood’s History

Ellwood Thompson’s Local Market has a long and interesting history in organic and natural foods in Richmond, Virginia. Many local residents will remember the first incarnation of the store, although it was nothing like the Ellwood Thompson’s of today.

In the mid 1980′s, Eric Walters, an employee of Grace Place, Richmond’s first vegetarian restaurant, began selling supplements, vitamins and a very limited selection of specialty natural products from a small corner of the restaurant. By the end of the 1980s it was time to expand.

Rick Hood, a local architect, was in the process of renovating a neighborhood shopping center. Together Hood and Walters opened City Market — a small 3,000 square foot full-service community market located near Patterson and Libbie avenues — to serve Richmonders hungry for organic and natural products. The store also featured organic produce and a small takeout deli.

In 1993, City Market moved to a larger space in Carytown. Shortly after moving, the store was renamed based on the suggestion of an employee’s 12-year-old daughter. Although many believe the store is owned by Mr. Ellwood Thompson, it’s actually named after the streets that intersect where the store is located, Ellwood Avenue and Thompson Street. Later, Walters decided to pursue new interests and Hood became the sole owner of the market. Since then, Hood has become deeply committed to the market’s mission of community and environmental practices. He also guides the store’s expansion and continuing improvements.

The market continued to expand after its move to Carytown. Starting at just 5,000 square feet, the market grew in phases to its present size of 15,000 square feet, making it the largest independent organic market not only in Richmond, but in all of Virginia. The store that began with one staff member now employees nearly 120.

In 2009 Ellwood Thompson’s was proud to add Ellwood’s Bakeshop. Ellwood’s Bakeshop, located across Thompson Street from the store, produces all of our delicious natural baked goods which are available at our store.

During our 2009 expansion we commissioned Richmond artist Ed Trask to add murals to our storefront depicting Ellwood Thompson’s strong commitment to the farm to table movement. As a local independent market, we pride ourselves on the ability to support small family-owned farms in our community, local artists and Richmond’s thriving culture.

Ellwood Thompson’s celebrates the community through in kind donations and support, while providing fresh, healthy and sustainable products for our customers.